The Mediterranean diet is associated with a variety of health benefits, including a lower incidence of dementia. Now, researchers have identified a specific ingredient that protects against cognitive decline: extra-virgin olive oil. In a new study, the researchers show that consumption of extra-virgin olive oil protects memory and learning ability and reduces the formation of amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain -- classic markers of Alzheimer's disease.

Two chemicals known as triclosan and triclocarban are used in a welter of consumer products, particularly antimicrobial soaps, personal-care products and other items of daily use. But extensive research has shown that these chemicals are often ineffective in safeguarding the public from harmful microbes and, further, pose significant risks to human health and the environment. Now, more than 200 scientists have joined together top call for a halt in the use of these products.

A vaccine to immunize people against high levels of cholesterol and the narrowing of the arteries caused by build-up of fatty material (atherosclerosis) may be possible following successful results in mice. Now, a phase I trial in patients has started to see if the findings translate to humans.

A new study advances understanding of how stem cells on the tongue grow into the different types of mature taste cells that detect either sweet, salty, sour, bitter, or umami. By identifying novel genes and molecular pathways involved in shaping a taste cell's function, these findings may someday allow scientists to treat taste disorders, characterize new taste qualities, or even fine-tune taste perception to encourage healthier eating.

Genetics figured out that it makes some people smarter than others. The DNA of intelligent people differs from others in fewer mutations! So there is no "intelligence gene", but heredity takes place. That's where the genetic scissors come in handy!